The National Assembly has approved Dr Julius Murori Mbijiwe for appointment as Kenya’s Ambassador to the Vatican City, the Holy See.
This follows the tabling of a report by the Departmental Committee on Defence, Intelligence and Foreign Relations on the approval hearings conducted pursuant to Article 132(2)(e) of the Constitution, Section 20(2) of the Foreign Service Act (Cap 185E), and Sections 3 and 8 of the Public Appointments (Parliamentary Approval) Act (Cap 7F).
While presenting the report on the floor of the House, Committee Vice Chairperson Hon. Major (Rtd) Abdullahi Bashir noted that the nominee underwent approval hearings on 27 April 2026, during which he was subjected to a rigorous vetting process.
He further stated that the process included public participation and integrity checks conducted by relevant statutory bodies, and that the nominee was found compliant with constitutional requirements, including Chapter Six on Leadership and Integrity.
Hon Bashir observed that Dr Mbijiwe presented a strong academic and professional background, holding a doctorate in Project Planning and Management, and bringing with him extensive experience in leadership and governance.
“His tenures in the Meru County Assembly, coupled with his current role as Chief of Staff in Meru County, demonstrate practical competence in negotiation, stakeholder engagement and public finance oversight,” noted Hon Bashir.
He added that these experiences, alongside his involvement in negotiations, reflect skills directly transferable to diplomatic practice, particularly in mediation and consensus building.
Hon Bashir also underscored the strategic importance of the Vatican mission, including its cost benefit considerations.
He noted that Kenya has not previously maintained a standalone embassy in the Vatican City, with relations instead being managed through non resident accreditation via the Embassy in France.
The establishment of a dedicated diplomatic mission to the Holy See, he said, represents a significant shift in how Kenya manages its engagement with one of the world’s most unique diplomatic entities. Kenya now becomes the first East African country to post an Ambassador to the Vatican.
However, the Committee raised concerns with the Ministry of Foreign and Diaspora Affairs regarding the cost implications of establishing a standalone mission. It noted that despite the anticipated strategic value, the Ministry had not provided a detailed, evidence based justification demonstrating that the benefits sufficiently outweigh the establishment costs.
Members of Parliament nonetheless expressed strong support for the nominee, praising his qualifications, character, and service record, and arguing that he was well suited for the position.
Hon Rahim Dawood highlighted Dr Mbijiwe’s character and community service, noting his extensive pro bono and charitable work in Meru County.
He also supported the establishment of the new mission, stating: “The importance of the Holy See cannot be gainsaid. If you look at the impact of the Catholic Church in this country, we can all proudly say that we have in one way or another benefited from the Church’s services.”
He further noted that the Catholic Church has played a significant role in health through hospitals and dispensaries, as well as in education through the management of many leading schools.
Echoing these sentiments, Hon Rindikiri Mugambi stated: “The Catholic Church plays a vital role not only in matters of health and education, but also in morality, faith and peace building.”
